Ring in the New Year in Tokyo
Japan, Asia
One of the best places to celebrate the start of a new year is undoubtedly Tokyo in Japan - you’ll get to take part in festivities for not just one day but for an entire week!
Japan’s new year celebrations start from 29th December and continue until 4th January. To enjoy a cultural experience the best spots to celebrate the new year in Tokyo is at Meiji Shrine or at Zoji-ji Temple where a monk rings the bell 108 times to denote the arrival of new year but if you like crowds and the party vibe, then head to Shibuya Crossing and partake in the countdown party - unquestionably one of the best outdoor New Year parties in the world.
Lisa Crawford
House of Travel Lower Hutt
Lisa
Courtney McCormack
House of Travel Morrinsville
Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.
Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.
With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.
I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.
Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.
Courtney
Chris Fifield
House of Travel Christchurch City
Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!
Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey.
"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday."
Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few.
Work, save, travel, repeat.
Why I love travel:
There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.
My travel tips:
- If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come.
- Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice!
- Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll.
- Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so.
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us.
- Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
- Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history.
- Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
- Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!
What's in my suitcase:
- Too much - I must do better!
- One universal adaptor and a 4 plug New Zealand multi box
Chris
Deepti Mehta
House of Travel Hobsonville
As someone who loves to explore the world, I've been to many places and learned a lot along the way. Now, I use that knowledge to help others plan amazing trips. Whether you want excitement, relaxation, or cultural experiences, I make personalized travel plans that suit your needs. What sets me apart is my genuine dedication to top-notch service. I've been in the travel business for a while, so I know how to make your trip extraordinary. When you choose me as your travel advisor, you're not just booking a trip, you're starting a journey with someone who truly wants to make it unforgettable. So, if you're ready for your next adventure, let's talk!
Deepti
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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